The National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA) and the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) issued a joint document to alleviate confusion in the marketplace regarding certification programs for precast and prestressed concrete products.

Both NPCA and PCI administer widely accepted, independent, third party-audited plant certification programs. Working together on these certification programs has been a priority for both organizations since 2013 as part of a wider effort to align key programs, including their annual trade shows, marketing, government affairs, technical and safety materials, and education and training.

The document allows specifiers to determine easily whether products require NPCA certification, PCI certification or whether either is allowable. This clarification ensures the accurate specification of certification programs, while also ensuring that all appropriately certified plants can bid the project.

Together, NPCA and PCI represent nearly 1,500 manufacturers of quality precast and prestressed concrete products, suppliers to the industry and precast concrete erectors. More than 3,500 individuals also are represented, including architects, consultants, contractors, developers, engineers, materials suppliers, service providers, educators and students.

“The partnership between NPCA and PCI grows stronger every day, and the clarification that this document provides is a service to specifiers, as well as to members of both organizations,” said NPCA President Fred Grubbe. “Precast concrete products continue to be a critical component of our nation’s infrastructure projects and will be even more prominent when Congress passes a national infrastructure bill in the near future.” 

“Members from both organizations have worked together to provide more clarity to owners and specifiers, as well as to our membership and the industry, to ensure that precast and prestressed concrete products remain at the highest possible quality. The ultimate goal is customer satisfaction,” added Bob Risser, PE, president and CEO of PCI.

Link to the press release here.